Beyond some of his highlight-worthy dunks this season, Mitchell has impressed all around. He leads all rookies in points per game (19.7) and 3-pointers made (115).

That play has put the No. 13 overall pick in the thick of the conversation with Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers for Rookie of the Year.

Mitchell’s opportunity in the Dunk Contest was created by a hip injury that’s forced Gordon to miss the Magic’s past four games, including Monday night’s contest. Gordon leads the team with 18.4 points per game this season.

Gordon competed the past two years in the dunking event, finishing as runner-up in 2016, and getting eliminated in the first round last year.

Defending Slam Dunk Contest champion Glenn Robinson III suffered an ankle injury during training camp and only recently returned to the court, playing for the Pacers’ G League affiliate.